The golfers held their own on the ice, with Blixt and Lingmerth dishing one-timers to each other and Hadwin and his caddie Joe Cruz strategizing on a different type of approach. They took drills and played some three-on-three with the Islanders, getting a feel for the speed and athleticism of the pro game.
"I've always thought hockey players were some of the best athletes in sports," Hadwin, the 50th-ranked golfer in the world, said. "Skating around with them today kind of proves everything."
Tweet from @TheNTGolf: In case you missed it: @dlingmerth @ahadwingolf & Jonas Blixt traded sticks for skates with the @NYIslanders Tuesdayhttps://t.co/h9k5Ksje91 pic.twitter.com/oRT1EI1TJv
Hadwin, Lingmerth and Blixt are tremendous and accomplished athletes in their own rights, able to drive a golf ball 300 yards - straight. In the locker room, Clutterbuck - who on a good day can shoot in the 60s - and Hickey asked them about their preparation, courses they've played and life on the Tour.
On the ice, they talked hockey, with Hadwin marveling at the Islanders ability to play in sold-out stadiums with screaming fans - the complete opposite environment of the silent, but pressure-packed putts on the PGA Tour that he breezes through.
"When we get the chance to interact with pros at the top of their level from different sports, it's always a lot of fun," Hadwin said. "It's been great to meet these guys."